PINOT NOIR
94 Lemelson 2018 Chestnut Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir (Chehalem Mountains). The year 2018 was a vintage that provided many fuller feeling expressions of Pinot in Willamette Valley. This wine shows that but also walks the tightrope of intensity and balance that has made the valley famous. It’s wound up tightly out of the gate, showing some reduction and needing some air and coaxing to get going. Aromas of spice, dark cherry and plum lead to fuller feeling, palate coating flavors that show depth and layering, along with plenty of freshness. It’s heavenly. Give it time or a long decant. Editors’ Choice. —S.S.
abv: 13.5% Price: $60
94 Nicolas-Jay 2018 Own-Rooted Pinot Noir (Willamette Valley). Fruit for this wine comes from vines planted in the 1970s and 80s. The aromas are intoxicating, with notes of wild strawberry, red plum, underbrush, black tea, leaves, cinnamon and satsuma. Full-feeling flavors follow, showing intensity, depth and plenty of structure. Black-tea notes linger on the finish. It’s a complete delight. Editors’ Choice. —S.S.
abv: 13.5% Price: $90
